Battery Module

Abstract

A battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a frame providing an internal space, a plurality of battery cells housed within the frame and arranged in a left-right direction, a bus bar frame assembly located in front of the plurality of battery cells and electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, and a barrier disposed between the plurality of battery cells and configured to have a front edge covered with a fire-resistant coating portion.

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a battery module.

[0002] This application claims priority based on Korean Patent Application No. 10-2022-0166951 filed on December 2, 2022, and Korean Patent Application No. 10-2023-0042348 filed on March 30, 2023, and the contents disclosed in the specification and drawings of said applications are incorporated herein in their entirety. [Background technology]

[0003] With the rapid increase in demand for portable electronic products such as laptops, video cameras, and mobile phones, and the full-scale commercialization of robots and electric vehicles, active research is being conducted on high-performance secondary batteries that can be repeatedly charged and discharged.

[0004] Currently commercially available secondary batteries include nickel-cadmium batteries, nickel-metal hydride batteries, nickel-zinc batteries, and lithium secondary batteries. Of these, lithium secondary batteries are attracting attention due to their advantages of being free to charge and discharge because they have almost no memory effect compared to nickel-based secondary batteries, an extremely low self-discharge rate, and a high energy density.

[0005] Such lithium secondary batteries mainly use lithium-based oxides and carbon materials as the positive and negative electrode active materials, respectively. The lithium secondary battery includes an electrode assembly in which a positive electrode plate and a negative electrode plate, each coated with the positive and negative electrode active materials, are arranged with a separator sandwiched between them, and an exterior material, i.e., a battery case, that seals and houses the electrode assembly together with an electrolyte.

[0006] Generally, lithium secondary batteries are classified into can-type secondary batteries, in which an electrode assembly is housed in a metal can, and pouch-type secondary batteries, in which an electrode assembly is housed in a pouch made of an aluminum laminate sheet, depending on the shape of the exterior material.

[0007] Recently, secondary batteries have been widely used for driving and storing energy not only in small devices such as portable electronic devices but also in medium- to large-sized devices such as electric vehicles and energy storage systems (ESS). A battery module can be formed by electrically connecting multiple secondary batteries and storing them together inside a module case. Furthermore, a battery pack can be formed by connecting multiple battery modules.

[0008] However, when multiple secondary batteries (battery cells) or multiple battery modules are densely packed in a small space, they may be vulnerable to thermal events. In particular, if an event such as thermal runaway occurs in one of the battery cells, high-temperature gas, flames, and heat may be generated. If such gas, flame, or heat is transmitted to other battery cells included in the same battery module, an explosive chain reaction such as thermal propagation may occur. Furthermore, such a chain reaction may not only cause accidents such as fire or explosion in the battery module itself, but may also cause fires or explosions in other battery modules.

[0009] Furthermore, in the case of medium- to large-sized battery packs, such as those used in electric vehicles, the risk of thermal chain reactions may be even greater because a large number of battery cells and battery modules are included to increase output and / or capacity. In addition, in the case of battery packs installed in electric vehicles, users such as the driver may be present nearby. Therefore, if a thermal event occurring in a specific battery module cannot be properly controlled and a chain reaction occurs, it may result in serious property damage and even loss of life. Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0010] The present invention is directed to solving the above and other problems.

[0011] Another object of the present invention is to provide a battery module capable of suppressing heat propagation.

[0012] It is still another object of the present invention to provide a battery module that can maintain safety even when exposed to flames or vent gases. [Means for solving the problem]

[0013] A battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a frame providing an internal space, a plurality of battery cells housed within the frame and arranged in a left-right direction, a bus bar frame assembly located in front of the plurality of battery cells and electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells, and a barrier disposed between the plurality of battery cells and configured such that a front edge thereof is covered with a fire-resistant coating portion.

[0014] The barrier may also include a pad and a fireproof sheet covering the left and right sides of the pad, and the coating portion may be configured to cover the front edge of the fireproof sheet and the front edge of the pad.

[0015] The coating may also extend to cover the outer surface of the fire-resistant sheet.

[0016] The coating may also extend along the periphery of the pad.

[0017] Additionally, the barrier may be tightly attached to the bus bar frame assembly.

[0018] The bus bar frame assembly may also include a groove formed on a rear surface thereof, and the barrier may be inserted into the groove.

[0019] The bus bar frame assembly may also include a slot protruding from a rear surface thereof, and the barrier may be configured to be inserted into the slot.

[0020] The battery module may further include a second coating layer covering the area between the slot and the barrier.

[0021] The bus bar frame assembly may have a hole formed in a vertical direction, and the barrier may be configured to pass through the hole.

[0022] The battery module may further include a thermal resin disposed on an inner surface of the frame, and at least a portion of an upper edge or a lower edge of the barrier may be configured to adhere to the thermal resin.

[0023] A battery pack according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the battery module of the present invention.

[0024] An automobile according to one embodiment of the present invention includes the battery module of the present invention. [Effects of the Invention]

[0025] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery module capable of suppressing heat propagation can be provided.

[0026] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery module capable of suppressing heat propagation can be provided.

[0027] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a battery module can be provided that includes a barrier that can inhibit the propagation of flames and vent gases.

[0028] According to at least one embodiment of the present invention, a battery module including a fire-resistant coating layer that maintains a barrier function capable of suppressing heat propagation can be provided.

[0029] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery module including a structure for stably fixing a barrier can be provided.

[0030] According to at least one of the embodiments of the present invention, a battery module can be provided that includes a structure for sealing a gap between a barrier and a bus bar frame assembly. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] The following drawings attached to this specification illustrate preferred embodiments of the present invention and, together with the detailed description of the invention, serve to further understand the technical concepts of the present invention. Therefore, the present invention should not be interpreted as being limited to only the matters described in the drawings.

[0032] [Figure 1] 1 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 2] 2 is an exploded view illustrating a partial configuration of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. [Figure 3] 1 is a diagram showing a partial configuration of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 4] 1 is a diagram illustrating a bus bar frame assembly of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 5] 1 is a diagram illustrating a partial configuration of a barrier of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 6] 10 is a diagram illustrating a cross-sectional configuration of a barrier of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention, which is partially joined. [Figure 7] 3 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a cross-sectional configuration of a barrier of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 8] 1 is a perspective view showing a barrier of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention; [Figure 9] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a part of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. [Figure 10] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 11] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 12] 2 is a view showing an isolated portion of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 13] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a part of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. [Figure 14] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 15] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 16] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 17] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 18] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 19] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 20] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 21] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 22] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 23] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 24] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 25] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 26] 2 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line AA' in FIG. 1. FIG. [Figure 27] 2 is a diagram showing a part of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the line BB' in FIG. 1. [Figure 28] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a barrier and a battery cell of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 29] 10A and 10B are diagrams illustrating a coupling between a barrier and a battery cell of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 30] 10 is a front view illustrating a combination of a barrier and a battery cell of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention; FIG. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0033] Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Prior to this, the terms and phrases used in the specification and claims should not be construed as being limited to their ordinary and dictionary meanings, but should be construed as having meanings and concepts corresponding to the technical ideas of the present invention, in accordance with the principle that the inventors themselves can appropriately define the concepts of terms in order to best describe the invention.

[0034] Therefore, it should be understood that the configurations shown in the embodiments described in this specification are merely the most desirable embodiments of the present invention and do not represent the entire technical idea of ​​the present invention, and that there may be various equivalents and modifications that can be substituted therefor at the time of this application.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is an exploded view showing a portion of the configuration of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 is a view showing a portion of the configuration of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a view showing a bus bar frame assembly 300 of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is an isolated view showing a portion of the configuration of a barrier of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a view showing a partially combined cross-sectional configuration of a barrier of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a view showing a portion of the cross-sectional configuration of a barrier of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a perspective view showing a barrier of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIGS. 1 to 8, a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a frame 400, a plurality of battery cells 100, a bus bar frame assembly 300, and a barrier 200.

[0036] The frame 400 may include an upper frame 420 and a lower frame 410. The lower frame may include a bottom plate and a pair of side plates extending from the bottom plate. The lower frame may form an internal space. The upper frame 420 and the lower frame 410 may be connected by welding. The upper frame 420 may be connected to the pair of side plates of the lower frame 410. Alternatively, the frame 400 may be formed as a single unit. The frame 400 may be configured in a rectangular parallelepiped shape. The frame 400 may also provide an internal space. The frame 400 may form the exterior of the battery module. The frame 400 may extend long in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The frame 400 may also be configured in a shape that is open in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction.

[0037] The plurality of battery cells 100 may be configured to be accommodated in an internal space provided by the frame 400. Here, each battery cell 100 may refer to a secondary battery. Each battery cell 100 may include a body 110 and electrode leads 120 protruding in the front-rear direction or the X-axis and -X-axis directions of the body 110. The battery cell 100 may include an electrode assembly, an electrolyte, and a battery case. In this case, the electrode assembly, the electrolyte, and the battery case may constitute the body 110. The battery cell 100 may be a pouch-type secondary battery. The plurality of battery cells 100 may generate heat during charging or discharging. The plurality of battery cells 100 may function as a heat source. The plurality of battery cells 100 may constitute a battery module. The battery module may include one or more battery cells 100 and may be configured to store and release energy. The plurality of battery cells 100 may be arranged or stacked in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction.

[0038] The bus bar frame assembly 300 may be positioned in front of the plurality of battery cells 100. The electrode leads 120 of each of the plurality of battery cells 100 may be electrically connected to the bus bar frame assembly 300. The bus bar frame assembly 300 may be configured to include a frame body 310, bus bars 320, and module terminals 330. The frame body 310 may be configured to cover the front sides of the plurality of battery cells 100. The bus bars 320 may be provided, coupled, or fastened to the front surface of the frame body 310. A plurality of bus bars 320 may be formed. The module terminals 330 may be electrically connected to the bus bars 320. The module terminals 330 may function as input / output terminals of the battery module. The frame body 310 may also include slits 311 extending in the up-down direction or Z-axis direction. The slits 311 may be configured to penetrate the frame body 310 in the front-rear direction or X-axis direction. A plurality of slits 311 may be formed and positioned along the left-right direction or Y-axis direction. The electrode leads 120 of each of the plurality of battery cells 100 can pass through the slits 311. The electrode leads 120 can pass through the slits 311 and be electrically connected to a bus bar 320 provided on the front surface of the frame body 310. The bus bar frame assemblies 300 can be formed in pairs. The bus bar frame assemblies 300 can be provided on the front and rear sides of the plurality of battery cells 100, respectively.

[0039] The barrier 200 may be housed inside the frame 400. The barrier 200 may be rectangular. The barrier 200 may extend in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. Multiple barriers 200 may be provided. Each barrier 200 may be disposed between multiple battery cells 100. The barriers 200 may be disposed or stacked in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The front and rear sides of the barrier 200 may contact, be coupled to, fastened to, inserted into, or attached to the bus bar frame assembly 300, respectively. The barrier 200 may be composed of one part or multiple parts. When the barrier 200 is composed of multiple parts, it is also referred to as a barrier assembly 200. The barrier 200 can suppress, delay, or prevent the propagation of flame or vent gas g in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. The barrier 200 may be made of a material that is not easily damaged when exposed to flame or vent gas g. The barrier 200 may be configured to be at least partially inserted into the bus bar frame assembly 300 .

[0040] The barrier may be configured to include a coating portion. The coating portion may be configured to cover the front edge of the barrier. The coating layer 910 may be fire-resistant. For example, the coating layer 910 may be made of a material such as epoxy, non-flammable PCM, FPC 5060, Locitite EA9400, or ceramic. The coating layer 910 may also be formed by spraying in liquid form. For example, after the barrier 200 is coupled to the slot 312, a coating liquid may be sprayed using a spray machine, and the coating liquid may be cured to form the coating layer 910. In this case, the coating layer 910 may be configured to have a thickness of approximately 0.05 to 2.2 mm.

[0041] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can suppress, delay, or prevent the propagation of flame or vent gas g. Therefore, even if a thermal event occurs in a battery cell 100, it can effectively suppress, delay, or prevent the heat from propagating to other battery cells 100. This can improve the thermal safety of the battery module.

[0042] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can stably maintain its heat propagation blocking function even when exposed to flames or vent gases g due to the fire-resistant coating portion 910.

[0043] 1 to 4, a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include an end plate 600, an insulating sheet 700, or a resin 800.

[0044] The end plates 600 may be formed in pairs. The end plates 600 may be provided on the front and rear sides of the plurality of battery cells 100, respectively. The end plates 600 may be fastened, coupled, or welded to the front or rear side of the frame 400, respectively. Alternatively, the end plates 600 may be fastened, coupled, or welded to the open ends of the frame 400, respectively. The frame 400 may be sealed inside by being fastened, coupled, or welded to the end plates 600.

[0045] The insulating sheet 700 may be configured to be positioned between the end plate 600 and the bus bar frame assembly 300. The insulating sheet 700 can electrically isolate the end plate 600 from the bus bar frame assembly 300. The insulating sheet 700 may be configured in pairs. The insulating sheet 700 may be provided between the front end plate 600 and the front bus bar frame assembly 300, and between the rear end plate 600 and the rear bus bar frame assembly 300, respectively.

[0046] The resin 800 may be configured to be formed inside the frame 400. The resin 800 may be configured to be positioned between the plurality of battery cells 100 and the lower frame 410. The resin 800 may also be configured to be positioned between the plurality of battery cells 100 and the upper frame 420. The resin 800 may also be configured to be positioned between the plurality of barriers 200 and the lower frame 410. The resin 800 may also be configured to be positioned between the plurality of barriers 200 and the upper frame 420. The resin 800 can fix the positions of the plurality of battery cells 100 or the plurality of barriers 200. The resin 800 can also cool the plurality of battery cells 100 by transferring heat generated from the plurality of battery cells 100 to the frame 400. The resin 800 may be injected into the frame 400 through the holes 411 and 421 in the upper frame 420 and the lower frame 410. In addition, the flame or vent gas g generated inside the battery module can be discharged to the outside through the holes 411 and 421.

[0047] The buffer pad 500 may be disposed between the outermost barrier 200 and the lower frame 410. Alternatively, the buffer pad 500 may be disposed between the outermost battery cell 100 and the lower frame 410. The buffer pad 500 may be configured in pairs. When swelling occurs in the plurality of battery cells 100, the buffer pad 500 can stably support the plurality of battery cells 100 by being elastically deformed. For example, the buffer pad 500 may be made of a silicone material.

[0048] 5 to 8, a barrier 200 of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include multiple components.

[0049] The barrier 200 may include a pad 210 and a fire-resistant sheet 220 covering the left and right sides of the pad 210. The fire-resistant sheet 220 may be configured to include a first fire-resistant sheet 221 and a second fire-resistant sheet 222. The first fire-resistant sheet 221 may cover the left side of the pad 210. Alternatively, the first fire-resistant sheet 221 may be attached to the left side of the pad 210. The second fire-resistant sheet 222 may cover the right side of the pad 210. Alternatively, the second fire-resistant sheet 222 may be attached to the right side of the pad 210. The first fire-resistant sheet 221 and the second fire-resistant sheet 222 may be configured as a pair. Alternatively, the first fire-resistant sheet 221 and the second fire-resistant sheet 222 may be configured by folding a single sheet. The first fire-resistant sheet 221 and the second fire-resistant sheet 222 may be configured of a fire-resistant or heat-resistant paper material.

[0050] The pad 210 may be configured in a sheet shape. For example, the pad 210 may be made of a silicone material. The pad 210 may be made of a material with high thermal insulation properties. The coating portion 910 may be configured to cover the front edge of the first fire-resistant sheet 221, the front edge of the second fire-resistant sheet 222, and the front edge of the pad 210.

[0051] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can have high fire resistance and heat insulation. The pad 210 has high heat insulation but can easily melt or be damaged by flames. The fire-resistant sheet 220 may have high fire resistance or heat resistance but not high heat insulation. The pad 210 may be protected from fire by being positioned between the first fire-resistant sheet 220 and the second fire-resistant sheet 220. The pad 210 may also be protected from fire by having its front edge covered with a coating. This allows the barrier 200 to have high heat insulation and not be damaged by fire.

[0052] 5 to 8, the first fire-resistant sheet 221, the second fire-resistant sheet 222, and the pad 210 of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to have substantially the same area. The first fire-resistant sheet 221 and the second fire-resistant sheet 222 may be configured to entirely surround the pad 210. As a result, when the pad 210 is positioned between the first fire-resistant sheet 221 and the second fire-resistant sheet 222, only the edge portion of the pad 210 is exposed to the outside. In addition, at least a portion of the edge of the pad 210 may be covered by a coating portion 910.

[0053] Furthermore, the coating portion 910 may extend to cover the outer surface of the first fire-resistant sheet 221. Furthermore, the coating portion 910 may extend to cover the outer surface of the second fire-resistant sheet 222. That is, the coating portion 910 may extend to cover the left surface of the first fire-resistant sheet 221 and the right surface of the second fire-resistant sheet 222.

[0054] According to this configuration of the present invention, the coating area formed on the barrier 200 is increased, so that the coating portion 910 can be stably bonded to the barrier 200. As a result, the edge of the pad 210 is not exposed to the flame or vent gas g.

[0055] 5 to 8 , the coating portion 910 of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to extend along the periphery of the pad 210. The coating portion 910 may extend along four edges of the pad 210. For example, the coating portion 910 may extend along the front edge, upper edge, rear edge, and lower edge of the pad 210. Alternatively, if the first fire-resistant sheet 221 and the second fire-resistant sheet 222 are integrally formed, the coating portion 910 may extend along three edges of the pad 210. For example, the coating portion 910 may extend along any one of the front edge, rear edge, upper edge, and lower edge of the pad 210.

[0056] According to this configuration of the present invention, the pad 210 can be entirely covered by the first fireproof sheet 221 and the second fireproof sheet 222 without being exposed to the outside, thereby more reliably protecting the pad 210 from fire, and improving the heat insulating performance of the barrier 200.

[0057] Fig. 9 is a diagram illustrating a portion of a cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Fig. 1. Referring to Fig. 9, the barrier 200 of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to adhere closely to the bus bar frame assembly 300. In addition, the coating layer 910 of the barrier 200 may be configured to adhere closely to the rear surface of the frame body 310.

[0058] According to this configuration of the present invention, the gap between the barrier 200 and the frame body 310 can be sealed, thereby suppressing, blocking, delaying or reducing the propagation of flames and vent gases g.

[0059] Furthermore, with this configuration of the present invention, the front edge of the barrier 200 is not exposed to flames or vent gas g, which allows the heat resistance or fire resistance of the barrier 200 to be stably maintained.

[0060] 10 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 10, a bus bar frame assembly 300 of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a groove 316 formed in its rear surface. The barrier 200 may be configured to be inserted into the groove 316. Alternatively, the groove 316 may be formed in the rear surface of the frame body 310. The groove 316 may extend longitudinally in the vertical direction or the Z-axis direction. The front side of the barrier 200 may be fitted or inserted into the groove 316.

[0061] According to this configuration of the present invention, it is possible to further suppress, reduce, prevent, or block the penetration of flames and vent gases g into the front side of the barrier, thereby stably maintaining the heat resistance or fire resistance of the barrier 200.

[0062] FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in FIG. 1. Referring to FIG. 11, a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a coating layer 909d. The coating layer 909d may be configured to fill the gap between the groove and the barrier. The coating layer 909d may be formed over the side surface of the barrier 200 and the rear surface of the frame body 310 adjacent to the groove 316. The coating layer 909d may be fire-resistant. For example, after the barrier 200 is bonded to the groove 316, a coating liquid may be sprayed using a spray machine and cured to form the coating layer 909d. The coating layer 909d may extend along the longitudinal direction of the groove 316. Alternatively, the coating layer 909d may extend along the periphery of the barrier 200.

[0063] According to this configuration of the present invention, the coating layer 909d can reduce, suppress, prevent, or block the penetration of flames or vent gases g through the gap between the groove 316 and the barrier 200. This can stably maintain the function of the barrier 200 and improve the thermal safety of the battery module.

[0064] Fig. 12 is a view showing an isolated portion of a cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Fig. 1. Fig. 13 is a view showing a portion of a cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Fig. 1. Fig. 14 is a view showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Fig. 1. Referring to Figs. 12 to 14, a bus bar frame assembly 300 of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a slot 312.

[0065] The frame body 310 may include a rearwardly protruding slot 312. The slot 312 may extend longitudinally along the vertical or Z-axis direction. The barrier 200 may be fitted or inserted into the slot 312.

[0066] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be stably coupled to the bus bar frame assembly 300.

[0067] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the gap between the barrier 200 and the bus bar frame assembly 300 can be reduced, thereby preventing the leakage of flames and vent gases g and improving the thermal safety of the battery module.

[0068] 12 to 14, a width D2 in the left-right or Y-axis direction of the slot 312 formed in the bus bar frame assembly 300 of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to be smaller than a thickness D1 of the barrier 200. In this case, the thickness D1 of the barrier 200 may be a combined thickness of the first fire-resistant sheet 221, the pad 210, and the second fire-resistant sheet 222.

[0069] The pad 210 may be made of an elastic material, which allows the barrier 200 to be compressed in the thickness direction or Y-axis direction, so that the front side of the barrier 200 can be coupled to the slot 312 by insertion, snap-fitting, or interference fit.

[0070] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be more stably coupled to the bus bar frame assembly 300 .

[0071] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the gap between the barrier 200 and the bus bar frame assembly 300 can be more reliably sealed, thereby preventing the leakage of flames and vent gas g and improving the thermal safety of the battery module.

[0072] 12 to 14 , the slot 312 formed in the bus bar frame assembly 300 of the battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include an inclined portion 312a. The inclined portion 312a may be configured to have a shape that increases in width toward the rear or negative X-axis direction. Alternatively, the inclined portion 312a may be configured to have a shape that decreases in width toward the front or positive X-axis direction. The inclined portion 312a may guide the barrier 200 to fit into the slot 312. The barrier 200 may slide toward the front or positive X-axis direction along the inclined portion 312a. This allows the barrier 200 to be coupled to the slot 312 by an interference fit.

[0073] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be easily coupled to the bus bar frame assembly 300.

[0074] Referring to FIG. 14 , a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a coating layer 909a. The coating layer 909a may be configured to fill a gap between the inclined portion 312a and the side surface of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909a may be fire-resistant. For example, the coating layer 909a may be made of a material such as epoxy, non-flammable PCM, FPC 5060, Locitite EA9400, or ceramic. The coating layer 909a may also be formed by spraying in liquid form. For example, after the barrier 200 is coupled to the slot 312, a coating liquid may be sprayed using a spray machine and cured to form the coating layer 909a. In this case, the coating layer 909a may be configured to have a thickness of approximately 0.05 to 2.2 mm. The coating layer 909a may extend along the longitudinal direction of the slot 312. Alternatively, the coating layer 909a may extend along the periphery of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909 a can provide a seal between the barrier 200 and the slot 312 .

[0075] According to this configuration of the present invention, the coating layer 909a can reduce, suppress, prevent, or block the front edge of the barrier 200 from being exposed to flames or vent gases g, thereby stably maintaining the function of the barrier 200 and improving the thermal safety of the battery module.

[0076] Fig. 15 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the section line A-A' in Fig. 1. Fig. 16 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the section line A-A' in Fig. 1. Fig. 17 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the section line A-A' in Fig. 1. Referring to Figs. 15 to 17, a bus bar frame assembly 300 of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a slot 314.

[0077] The slot 314 may be configured to include a first inclined portion 314a, a second inclined portion 314c, and a fixing portion 314b. The first inclined portion 314a may be configured to have a shape that increases in width toward the rear or negative X-axis direction. Alternatively, the first inclined portion 314a may be configured to have a shape that decreases in width toward the front or positive X-axis direction. The first inclined portion 314a may guide the barrier 200 to fit into the slot 314. The barrier 200 may slide forward or in the positive X-axis direction along the first inclined portion 314a. This allows the barrier 200 to be inserted, fitted, or tightly fitted into the slot 314.

[0078] The second inclined portion 314c may be configured to have a shape that narrows toward the rear or negative X-axis direction, or may be configured to have a shape that widens toward the front or positive X-axis direction.

[0079] The pressure portion 314b may be located between the first inclined portion 314a and the second inclined portion 314c. The pressure portion 314b may connect the first inclined portion 314a and the second inclined portion 314c. The first inclined portion 314a, the second inclined portion 314c, and the pressure portion 314b may be integrally formed. The width D3 of the pressure portion 314b in the left-right or Y-axis direction may be configured to be smaller than the thickness D1 of the barrier 200.

[0080] When the barrier 200 is inserted, fitted, interference-fitted, or coupled into the slot 314, the width D4 of the pressure portion 314b may increase, thereby allowing the pressure portion 314b to compress and fix the barrier 200. The second inclined portion 314c may impart elasticity to the pressure portion 314b so that the widths D3 and D4 of the pressure portion 314b increase.

[0081] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be more stably coupled to the bus bar frame assembly 300 by being compressed by the pressure portion 314b.

[0082] 17 , a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a coating layer 909b. The coating layer 909b may be configured to fill a gap between the first inclined portion 314a and a side surface of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909b may be fire-resistant. The coating layer 909b may extend along the longitudinal direction of the slot 314. Alternatively, the coating layer 909b may extend along the periphery of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909b may provide a seal between the barrier 200 and the slot 314.

[0083] According to this configuration of the present invention, the coating layer 909b can reduce, suppress, prevent, or block the front edge of the barrier 200 from being exposed to flames or vent gases g, thereby stably maintaining the function of the barrier 200 and improving the thermal safety of the battery module.

[0084] Fig. 18 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the section line A-A' in Fig. 1. Fig. 19 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the section line A-A' in Fig. 1. Fig. 20 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along the section line A-A' in Fig. 1. Referring to Figs. 18 to 20, a bus bar frame assembly 300 of a battery module according to one embodiment of the present invention may include a slot 315.

[0085] The slot 315 may be configured to include a first inclined portion 315a, a second inclined portion 315c, and a pressure portion 315b. The first inclined portion 315a may be configured to have a shape that increases in width toward the rear or negative X-axis direction. Alternatively, the first inclined portion 315a may be configured to have a shape that decreases in width toward the front or positive X-axis direction. The first inclined portion 315a may guide the barrier 200 to fit into the slot 315. The barrier 200 may slide forward or in the positive X-axis direction along the first inclined portion 315a. This allows the barrier 200 to be inserted, fitted, or tightly fitted into the slot 315.

[0086] The second inclined portion 315c may be configured to have a shape that narrows toward the rear or negative X-axis direction, or may be configured to have a shape that widens toward the front or positive X-axis direction.

[0087] The pressure applying portion 315b may be located between the first inclined portion 315a and the second inclined portion 315c. The pressure applying portion 315b may also connect the first inclined portion 315a and the second inclined portion 315c. The first inclined portion 315a, the second inclined portion 315c, and the pressure applying portion 315b may be integrally formed.

[0088] The width D5 of the pressure portion 315b in the left-right or Y-axis direction may be configured to be smaller than the thickness D1 of the barrier 200. In this case, the width D5 of the pressure portion 315b may be the minimum width D5 of the slot 315. The thickness of the compression portion 201 of the barrier 200 may decrease toward the front or +X-axis direction.

[0089] When the barrier 200 is inserted, fitted, interference-fitted, or coupled into the slot 315, the width D6 of the pressure portion 315b may increase. This allows the pressure portion 315b to compress and fix the barrier 200. The pressure portion 315b has an uneven shape and may make line or point contact with the barrier 200. The second inclined portion 315c may impart elasticity to the pressure portion 315b so that the widths D5 and D6 of the pressure portion 315b increase.

[0090] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be more stably coupled to the bus bar frame assembly 300 by being compressed by the pressure portion 315b.

[0091] 20 , a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a coating layer 909c. The coating layer 909c may be configured to fill a gap between the first inclined portion 315a and the side surface of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909c may be fire-resistant. The coating layer 909c may extend along the longitudinal direction of the slot 315. Alternatively, the coating layer 909c may extend along the periphery of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909c may provide a seal between the barrier 200 and the slot 315.

[0092] According to this configuration of the present invention, the coating layer 909c can reduce, suppress, prevent, or block the front edge of the barrier 200 from being exposed to flames or vent gases g, thereby stably maintaining the function of the barrier 200 and improving the thermal safety of the battery module.

[0093] Figure 21 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Figure 1. Figure 22 is a diagram showing a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 21 and 22, a bus bar frame assembly 300 of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a hole 313.

[0094] The hole 313 may penetrate the frame body 310 in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The frame body 310 may include a slot 312 that protrudes rearward and is adjacent to the hole 313. In this case, the slot 312 may be referred to as a guide 312 or a guide slot 312. The hole 313 may be formed elongated along the slot 312 in the up-down direction or the Z-axis direction.

[0095] The barrier 200 may be fitted or inserted into the slot 312. Also, the barrier 200 may be at least partially inserted into the hole 313. Alternatively, the barrier 200 may pass through the hole 313. In this case, the length of the hole 313 may be configured to be substantially the same as the length of the barrier 200 in the up-down direction or the length in the Z-axis direction. Also, the width D2 of the hole 313 in the left-right direction or the width D2 in the Y-axis direction may be formed to be the same as the width D2 of the slot 312.

[0096] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be stably coupled to the bus bar frame assembly 300.

[0097] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the front side or front edge of the barrier 200 is positioned at the front side of the frame body, thereby reducing, suppressing, blocking or preventing exposure to flames and vent gases g.

[0098] 21 and 22 , a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a coating layer 909a. The coating layer 909a may be configured to fill a gap between the inclined portion 312a and the side surface of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909a may be fire-resistant. The coating layer 909a may extend along the longitudinal direction (up / down direction) of the slot 312 or along the Z-axis direction. Alternatively, the coating layer 909a may extend along the periphery of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909a may seal between the barrier 200 and the slot 312.

[0099] Figure 23 is a diagram illustrating a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Figure 1. Figure 24 is a diagram illustrating a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 23 and 24, a bus bar frame assembly 300 of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a hole 313.

[0100] The hole 313 may penetrate the frame body 310 in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The frame body 310 may include a slot 314 that protrudes rearward and is adjacent to the hole 313. In this case, the slot 314 may be referred to as a guide 314 or a guide slot 314. The hole 313 may be formed long along the slot 314 in the up-down direction or the Z-axis direction.

[0101] The barrier 200 may be fitted or inserted into the slot 314. Alternatively, the barrier 200 may be at least partially inserted into the hole 313. Alternatively, the barrier 200 may pass through the hole 313. In this case, the length of the hole 313 may be configured to be substantially the same as the length of the barrier 200 in the up-down direction or the length in the Z-axis direction. Before the barrier 200 is inserted into the hole 313, the width D2 of the hole 313 in the left-right direction or the width D2 in the Y-axis direction may be formed to be equal to or smaller than the width D3 of the slot 314. Furthermore, after the barrier 200 is inserted into the hole 313, the width D2 of the hole 313 in the left-right direction or the width D2 in the Y-axis direction may be formed to be smaller than the width D4 of the slot 314.

[0102] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be stably coupled to the bus bar frame assembly 300.

[0103] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the front side or front edge of the barrier 200 is positioned at the front side of the frame body, thereby reducing, suppressing, blocking or preventing exposure to flames and vent gases g.

[0104] 23 and 24 , a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a coating layer 909b. The coating layer 909b may be configured to fill a gap between the inclined portion 314a and the side surface of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909b may be fire-resistant. The coating layer 909b may extend along the longitudinal direction (up / down direction) of the slot 314 or the Z-axis direction. Alternatively, the coating layer 909b may extend along the periphery of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909b may seal between the barrier 200 and the slot 314.

[0105] Figure 25 is a diagram illustrating a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Figure 1. Figure 26 is a diagram illustrating a modified embodiment of the cross-sectional configuration taken along line A-A' in Figure 1. Referring to Figures 25 and 26, a bus bar frame assembly 300 of a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may include a hole 313.

[0106] The hole 313 may penetrate the frame body 310 in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. The frame body 310 may include a slot 315 that protrudes rearward and is adjacent to the hole 313. In this case, the slot 315 may be referred to as a guide 315 or a guide slot 315. The hole 313 may be formed long in the up-down direction or the Z-axis direction along the slot 315.

[0107] The barrier 200 may be fitted or inserted into the slot 315. Alternatively, the barrier 200 may be at least partially inserted into the hole 313. Alternatively, the barrier 200 may pass through the hole 313. In this case, the length of the hole 313 may be configured to be substantially the same as the length of the barrier 200 in the up-down direction or the length in the Z-axis direction. Before the barrier 200 is inserted into the hole 313, the width D2 of the hole 313 in the left-right direction or the width D2 in the Y-axis direction may be formed to be equal to or smaller than the width D5 of the slot 314. Furthermore, after the barrier 200 is inserted into the hole 313, the width D2 of the hole 313 in the left-right direction or the width D2 in the Y-axis direction may be formed to be smaller than the width D6 of the slot 314.

[0108] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be stably coupled to the bus bar frame assembly 300.

[0109] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the front side or front edge of the barrier 200 is positioned at the front side of the frame body, thereby reducing, suppressing, blocking or preventing exposure to flames and vent gases g.

[0110] 25 and 26 , a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may be configured to include a coating layer 909c. The coating layer 909c may be configured to fill a gap between the inclined portion 315a and the side surface of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909c may be fire-resistant. The coating layer 909c may extend along the longitudinal direction (up / down direction) of the slot 315 or along the Z-axis direction. Alternatively, the coating layer 909c may extend along the periphery of the barrier 200. The coating layer 909c may seal between the barrier 200 and the slot 315.

[0111] Fig. 27 is a diagram showing a portion of a cross-sectional configuration taken along line B-B' in Fig. 1. Referring to Fig. 27, a battery module according to an embodiment of the present invention may further include a resin 800 disposed on an inner surface of the frame 400. The resin 800 may be referred to as a thermal resin 800. At least a portion of an upper edge or a lower edge of the barrier 200 may be configured to adhere to the thermal resin 800.

[0112] For example, the barrier 200 may be adhered to the thermal resin 800 with the four edges covered by the coating layer 910 .

[0113] Alternatively, at least a portion of the upper or lower edge of the barrier 200 may not be coated with the coating layer 910. In this case, the upper or lower edge of the barrier 200 may be configured to be coated or covered with the thermal resin 800. This prevents the pads 210 of the barrier 200 from being exposed to the outside.

[0114] Alternatively, the thermal resin 800 may be formed only between the bottom plate of the lower frame 410 and the barrier 200. In this case, the thermal resin 800 may not be disposed between the upper frame 420 and the barrier 200. This allows flames and vent gases (g) to be vented upward when a thermal event occurs.

[0115] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200 can be fixed in the vertical direction, thereby enabling the barrier 200 to support the battery cells 100 more stably.

[0116] Furthermore, according to this configuration of the present invention, the thermal resin 800 can fill the gap between the barrier 200 and the frames 410, 420, thereby reducing, suppressing, preventing, or blocking the propagation of flames or vent gases g.

[0117] Fig. 28 is a diagram showing a barrier 200a and a battery cell 100 of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 29 is a diagram showing a combination of the barrier 200a and the battery cell 100 of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Fig. 30 is a front view showing a combination of the barrier 200a and the battery cell 100 of a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figs. 28 to 30, a battery module according to another embodiment of the present invention may include a barrier 200a made of a single material.

[0118] The barrier 200a may be configured to have a corrugated board shape, a corrugated board structure, or a corrugated structure. The barrier 200a may be made of fire-resistant paper. The barrier 200a may be configured to include a pair of paper sheets and a corrugated paper sheet bonded between the pair of paper sheets. The barrier 200a may be formed in a corrugated structure having peaks and valleys. The plurality of battery cells 100 may be arranged to be located at the peaks and valleys, respectively. The plurality of battery cells 100 and the barrier 200a may be configured to be in close contact with each other.

[0119] In this case, the length of the barrier 200a in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction may be configured to be longer than the length of the body 110 of the battery cell 100 in the front-rear direction or the X-axis direction. As a result, the barrier 200a may be configured to entirely cover the side surface of the battery cell 100 and to cover at least a portion of the electrode lead 120. The front edge or the rear edge of the barrier 200a may be tightly attached to, in contact with, coupled to, fastened to, or inserted into the bus bar frame assembly 300.

[0120] According to this configuration of the present invention, the barrier 200a has a corrugated cardboard structure and can be configured to be deformable in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction. As a result, when swelling occurs in the battery cell 100, the barrier 200a is compressed in the left-right direction or the Y-axis direction, thereby enabling the battery cell 100 to be stably supported.

[0121] A battery pack according to the present invention may include two or more of the above-described battery modules according to the present invention.

[0122] In addition, the battery pack according to the present invention may further include various other components in addition to the battery sub-module, for example, components of a battery pack known at the time of filing of the present invention, such as a BMS, a bus bar, a pack case, a relay, a current sensor, etc.

[0123] An automobile according to the present invention may include two or more battery modules according to the present invention. The battery module according to the present invention may be applied to automobiles such as electric automobiles and hybrid automobiles. That is, an automobile according to the present invention may include a battery module according to the present invention, a battery module according to the present invention, or a battery pack according to the present invention. Furthermore, an automobile according to the present invention may further include various other components included in an automobile in addition to the battery module or battery pack. For example, an automobile according to the present invention may further include a vehicle body, a motor, a control device such as an ECU (electronic control unit), etc. in addition to the battery module according to the present invention.

[0124] Meanwhile, in this specification, terms indicating directions such as up, down, left, right, front, and back are used, but these terms are used for convenience of explanation, and it will be obvious to those skilled in the art of the present invention that they may change depending on the position of the object in question, the position of the observer, etc.

[0125] As described above, the present invention has been described using limited embodiments and drawings, but the present invention is not limited thereto, and it goes without saying that a person having ordinary knowledge in the technical field to which the present invention pertains can make various modifications and variations within the technical spirit of the present invention and the equivalent scope of the following claims. [Explanation of symbols]

[0126] 100 battery cells 110 Body 120 Electrode Lead 200 Barrier Assembly 200a Barrier 201 Compression section 210 pads 220 Fireproof Sheet 221 No. 1 Fireproof Sheet 222 No. 2 Fireproof Sheet 300 Busbar Frame Assembly 310 frame body 311 Slit 312 Slots 312a Slope 313 holes 314 Slots 314a Slope 314b Fixed part, pressure part 314c 2nd slope 315 Slots 315a 1st slope 315b Pressure section 315c 2nd slope 316 Groove 320 Busbar 330 Module Terminal 400 frames 410 Lower Frame 411 hole 420 Upper Frame 421 hole 500 cushioning pads 600 End Plate 700 Insulation Sheet 800 Thermal Resin 909a~909d Coating layer 910 Coating Department 9400 Locitite EA A-A' cutting line B-B' cutting line D2~D6, Y width g Vent gas sm spray machine

Claims

1. a frame that provides an interior space and extends in a front-to-rear direction; a plurality of battery cells housed inside the frame and arranged in a left-right direction perpendicular to a front-rear direction; a bus bar frame assembly located in front of the plurality of battery cells in a front-rear direction and electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a barrier disposed between the plurality of battery cells, the barrier having a front edge covered with a fire-resistant coating, The barrier is a pad including a front edge, the front edge being an end surface of the pad on a front side facing the bus bar frame assembly; a fireproof sheet covering the left and right sides of the pad; The coating portion covers the front edge of the pad.

2. The coating portion is The battery module according to claim 1 , further covering a front edge of the fireproof sheet.

3. The coating portion is The battery module according to claim 2 , further extending to cover an outer surface of the fire-resistant sheet.

4. The coating portion is The battery module according to claim 2 , which extends along the periphery of the pad.

5. The barrier is The battery module according to claim 1 , wherein the battery module is in close contact with the bus bar frame assembly.

6. The bus bar frame assembly includes: a groove formed in the rear surface; The barrier is The battery module according to claim 5 , inserted into the groove.

7. The bus bar frame assembly includes: a slot projecting from the rear surface; The barrier is The battery module according to claim 5 , inserted into the slot.

8. A frame that provides an internal space and extends in the front-to-rear direction; a plurality of battery cells housed inside the frame and arranged in a left-right direction perpendicular to a front-rear direction; a bus bar frame assembly located in front of the plurality of battery cells in a front-rear direction and electrically connected to the plurality of battery cells; a barrier disposed between the plurality of battery cells, the barrier having a front edge in a front-to-rear direction covered with a fire-resistant coating; The barrier is closely contacting the bus bar frame assembly; The bus bar frame assembly includes: a slot projecting from the rear surface; The barrier is inserted into the slot, The battery module further includes a second coating layer covering between the slot and the barrier.

9. The bus bar frame assembly includes: It has a hole formed long in the vertical direction, The barrier is The battery module according to claim 1 , wherein the hole is penetrated.

10. Further comprising a thermal resin disposed on an inner surface of the frame; The battery module according to claim 1 , wherein at least a portion of an upper edge or a lower edge of the barrier is adhered to the thermal resin.

11. A battery pack comprising the battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

12. A motor vehicle comprising a battery module according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

Images